This is not football – Carvajal criticises Iran

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Dani Carvajal described Iran’s tactics as ‘disloyal’ even though Spain recorded their first World Cup win.

Diego Costa’s fortunate goal settled a tight contest in Kazan, moving Spain level on points with Portugal at the top of Group B.

HIGHLIGHTS: Costa goal breaks stubborn resistance

Iran had a goal disallowed following a VAR review, while Mehdi Taremi was among those to miss chances for Carlos Queiroz’s side.

Real Madrid right back Carvajal, though, felt Iran’s defensive tactics were over-the-top, while hitting out at what he perceived to be play-acting.

‘The team sits back and that is a tactical strategy that is part of the game,’ Carvajal said.

‘But the injuries are simulated.

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‘This is not football, it is disloyal, but everyone there has their conscience.’

Carjaval is now hoping future opponents at Russia 2018, starting with Morocco in their Group B closer, are more ambitious in their play.

‘It has been hard for us to open the door,’ Carvajal added. ‘But we kept the clean sheet despite the chances they have had; they are three very important points.

HIGHLIGHTS: Centurion Suarez strikes to send Uruguay through

‘We are a team that plays direct, open, and I hope we do not have rivals that put many players in their area.’

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Dean Workman